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Pregnancy & Opiates: What You Need to Know

Opiate addiction is a serious and widespread disease affecting all kinds of people, even pregnant women. Due to the serious side effects associated with using opiates while pregnant, it’s important to seek help when a mother and baby are at risk. The compassionate team from BRIGHTSIDE Clinic in Northbrook, IL, Tinley Park, IL, and North Aurora, IL explains everything you need to know about this potentially deadly combination.

What Are Commonly Prescribed Opiates?

Opioids are found in a wide range of medications prescribed by your doctor, including OxyContin, Percocet, and Duragesic. Used to treat pain after surgery, doctors prescribe these medications in staggering numbers. This is one way someone can develop an addiction to opiates; others, meanwhile, may begin using them recreationally.

Opiates & Pregnancy

Between 2000 and 2009, the number of pregnant women using opiates at the time of their delivery increased by nearly 500%. Opiates can significantly affect the physical and mental development of a fetus. Due to the varying strengths of this drug, some may pose more severe risks than other forms. Typically, babies born to mothers with an opiate addiction inherit this addiction beginning at birth. The baby will require immediate medical attention, in addition to a lifetime of support down the road. Opioid use may also lead to premature birth or fetal death.

If you or someone you know is using opiates while pregnant, it’s important to seek professional help immediately. The sooner the mother begins opiate addiction treatment, the less chance this harmful drug will affect the health of the baby.

For compassionate addiction recovery services in the Highland Park, Lake County, Tinley Park, Joliet and Chicago area, look no further than Brightside Clinic. When it comes to addiction, you’re not alone.

If you or someone you love is in need of drug addiction treatment near Elgin, St. Charles or Des Plaines, Illinois, speak with a member of the Brightside Clinic team about your options.